Let’s dive into some of my most personal bookish confessions. These revelations will give you a sneak peek into my one-of-a-kind connection with the world of books. So, grab a comfy seat, and let’s explore the quirks and peculiarities that make my reading journey a bit different. While I may not have followed the crowd when it came to classic novels or popular series, my unique experiences and idiosyncrasies in the world of literature have shaped my own delightful adventure.
Skipping the Classics
I must admit that I have never read the famous fiction books that many of my peers grew up with, such as The Famous Five, Nancy Drew, or The Secret Seven. My literary journey took a different path, and I’ve never quite stepped into their well-trodden pages.
Not a Potterhead (yet!)
I am not a Potterhead either. While the world was enchanted by the magical adventures of Harry Potter, I found myself drawn to different stories and worlds. Sometimes, being outside the mainstream can feel like a world of its own.
The Picture Book Predicament
On occasions, I’ve found myself purchasing picture books not for my daughter or as gifts for children but for my own personal enjoyment. There’s something enchanting about the illustrations and simplicity of these books that speaks to my inner child.
The Wordy Poetry Hack
When I encounter writer’s block while crafting personalized poetry gifts for clients, I turn to a peculiar trick. I select a book from my shelf, open it randomly, and choose a word from the first line. This word becomes the catalyst for my creative process. Sometimes it leads to poetry; sometimes it doesn’t. Regardless, it helps me overcome the block.
The Mix-and-Match Reader
Unlike many readers who prefer to immerse themselves in one book at a time, I find myself constantly switching between different genres and stories. It’s as if I can’t resist the allure of multiple literary worlds simultaneously.
A part of our collection!
The Eclectic Taste
While my daughter’s book collection is often in high demand among her friends, mine doesn’t enjoy the same popularity. It appears my taste in literature, which encompasses non-fiction, poetry, spirituality, and even mathematics (an unusual combination, I admit), is somewhat unique.
Emotional Resonance Over Names
More often than not, I find myself forgetting the names of characters or places in the plot. However, what I remember with remarkable clarity is how the book evoked specific emotions during my reading journey and the circumstances surrounding my immersion in its pages.
The Mysterious Connection
To add a final layer of intrigue, my bookshelf harbours books I haven’t completed and others I haven’t even started. Yet, books have a way of communicating with readers in mysterious ways. Some books remain dormant on my shelf for years, only to be rediscovered when the timing is just right, making them feel entirely new and inviting me to finish what I once started.
So, there it is- my bookish confessions. In sharing these personal revelations, I hope to show that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to reading. We all have our idiosyncrasies when it comes to books, and that’s what makes the world of literature so rich and diverse. Embrace your unique reading style, and you may find that books have their own way of speaking to you, too.
What are the Yoga Sutras? Instructions for bearded rishis who lived in the forests of ancient India? Or the complete manual of asanas?
Neither! In fact, the text may well have been called ‘Maharishi P’s Ultimate Handbook of Mind Control’, for it is really a set of techniques to help us – all of us – awaken and harness the explosive power of our minds, through our actions, our attitudes and our awareness.
And not our asanas? Those too, but not in the way you imagined it.
In this surprising, sparkling book, Roopa Pai unravels the secrets of Patanjali’s compact 2,000-year-old text in ways both fun and accessible. Walk down the well-marked paths into a dazzling world where a whole new version of yourself – self-assured, fearless and free – awaits you. Go on, then – what are you waiting for?
Book Review
Whether you’ve encountered Maharishi Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras before or not, the word “Yoga” is likely familiar to most. Just the mention of Yoga conjures images of twisted postures and serene faces in meditation. But here’s the catch: Yoga is far more than just practising physical asanas (postures). It embodies the union of individual consciousness with the Universal Consciousness, representing a profound harmony between the mind and body, as well as between humanity and nature.
The “Yoga Sutras” by Maharishi Patanjali serve as a valuable handbook to master your mind, containing 195 sutras thoughtfully organized into four chapters: samAdhipAda, sAdhanapAda, vibhUtipAda, and kaivalyapAda. These sutras are a pathway to quieting the mind, and spiritual growth enabling one to perceive reality as it truly is, rather than how it appears on the surface.
With that concise introduction to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, let’s delve into the review of “The Yoga Sutras for Children” by Roopa Pai.
The initial question that arises is why present such a highly philosophical text to children, especially when even adults sometimes struggle to grasp and apply its teachings. But trust me, it’s the younger generation, the kids, who face peer pressure, stress, decision fatigue, and other challenges (a few words we didn’t even know existed) that need this book the most. Why? Because their minds are inundated with numerous thoughts and emotions, and the concept of simply being at peace without any productivity seems foreign to them.
To begin, the author Roopa Pai has done an exceptional job of contextualizing the teachings of Maharishi Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and captivating readers with a compelling elevator pitch that draws them in and keeps them engaged. Through her skilful approach, she makes the seemingly complex Yoga Sutras more accessible, providing relatable and practical applications for each sutra. As a result, readers can apply these teachings to enhance their lives and function at their best. The book serves as a valuable guide for personal growth and self-improvement, catering to readers of all ages and backgrounds.
In this book, she covers the first two chapters, samAdhipAda and sAdhanapAda, out of the four chapters (with the anticipation of a sequel for the remaining two) in the Yoga Sutras. Even these two chapters are thoughtfully broken down into sizable chunks for easy digestion of the concepts – or rather, the profound wisdom – that Maharshi Patanjali penned down centuries ago.
What makes it even more appealing is the impeccable structure and presentation of the book. Roopa Pai skillfully ensures that it resonates with both atheists and theists alike. Moreover, she adeptly draws comparisons across various religions and faiths, illuminating the striking similarities and underscoring the text’s secularity and universal principles. This approach adds depth and inclusivity to the book, making it relatable and insightful for readers of diverse beliefs and backgrounds.
Roopa has a profound understanding of her audience and expertly provides the necessary context for readers to comprehend the origins and nuances of these ancient texts. Simultaneously, she effectively highlights the relevance of the sutras in the contemporary era.
The interactive language she employs is exceptionally captivating, without compromising on clarity or depth. The book encompasses practical exercises that resonate with readers of all ages.
Notable Features from the book!
Notable Features
The unique chat boxes that simulate conversations between Maharishi Patanjali and the reader, creating an immersive experience that feels like someone is articulating our very thoughts and inquiries. This creative and engaging approach adds an extra dimension to the reading experience, fostering a personal connection between the reader and the teachings, making the book all the more impactful and enjoyable.
Additionally, the “Do It!” and “Think About It” boxes, containing relevant activities and exercises for our present times, encourage readers to apply the principles of Yoga Sutras in their day-to-day lives, enabling them to experience the benefits firsthand.
The pronunciation guide at the end of the book ensures that readers can correctly grasp and pronounce the Sanskrit terms (along with their English transliterations) used in the text, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the content.
Furthermore, the ready reckoner serves as a convenient quick-reference guide, making it easier for readers to revisit key concepts and insights as needed.
The black and white illustrations by Sayan Mukherjee are not only visually appealing but also aid in comprehending the information being conveyed, adding depth to the reader’s understanding.
These practical elements showcase the author’s dedication to making the book reader-friendly and accessible, further enhancing the value of this already excellent work. I absolutely love it!
Wrap-up words
Overall, “Yoga Sutras for Children” impressively caters to its target audience while holding the attention of mature readers as well. Roopa’s expertise shines through as she brings these ancient teachings to life, making them accessible and applicable to our modern lives. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or anyone seeking mental well-being and spiritual growth, this book offers valuable insights and practices to navigate the complexities of life. I highly recommend it for both children and adults looking to cultivate inner peace and harmony.
So what are you waiting for? As Maharishi Patanjali has said and the author Roopa Pai has beautifully decoded for us, “NOW is the good time to start!” अथ योगानुशासनम्॥1॥
‘I am the mother of a child who did not fit the school system, a child who was disabled by it. She was a child who made “errors”, “mistakes” that the school system was unforgiving of. We were told by the principal of an alternative school that they could not possibly admit “this kind of child”. My daughter went from being a child to “this kind of child” in that one moment.’
When she started working on the book, it was Srilata’s daughter who was its protagonist. But soon, she realised that there was no way she could stop with her daughter’s story. With each step ahead (or back), she became acutely aware of the larger story of the things we frame as ‘disability’.
‘I have learnt that disability is profoundly political, that it is heartbreakingly social.’
In This Kind of Child Srilata brings together first-person accounts, interviews and short fiction which open up for us the experiential worlds of persons with disabilities and those who love them. The book offers a multi-perspectival understanding of the disability experience its emotional as well as imagined truth, both to the disabled themselves as well as to those closely associated with them.
‘1 have learnt that stories are always bigger than they seem at first—bigger, wider and deeper.’
At the heart of this book is inter-being and the question: What does it mean to love and accept yourself or someone else fully?
Book Review
“This Kind of Child: The ‘Disability’ Story” by K. Srilata is a book that weaves together various perspectives on the disability experience through the voices of individuals with disabilities, their caregivers, families, and institutions that work with people with disabilities. The format of the book is fluid, incorporating first-person accounts, interviews, and short stories, which aptly capture the diversity of the disability narrative that cannot be summarized by a “one size fits all” approach.
As I began reading this book, I was immediately impressed by the author’s conscious decision to include a “note on terms used” that highlights their preference for people-first language. This gave me confidence in the book’s authenticity. As I continued to the Preface, I empathised with the author. A few pages into the narrative, I, as someone living with an autoimmune condition, felt truly seen when the author mentioned the invisible disability that often comes with chronic illnesses. I couldn’t agree more with the author’s assertion that self-representation is crucial to shaping the disability narrative.
The book initially began as a manuscript that focused on capturing the learning difficulties of Srilata’s daughter, who was rejected by a school due to the lack of provisions for “this kind of child.” However, the book organically evolved into a format that incorporates multiple perspectives and facets of the disability story, making it a comprehensive and inclusive representation.
The book is divided into 7 sections, each of which reflects on various aspects of the disability experience. The first section discusses how schools and colleges often disable our youth, while the second highlights the need to move away from the “charity” model towards recognizing disability as a legitimate right. The third section explores the concept of “seeing” and what sighted individuals may overlook, while the fourth section delves into the often-invisible care work associated with disability and its gendered nature. The fifth section features narratives from siblings of individuals with disabilities, providing an additional perspective. The sixth section focuses on creating roadmaps and spaces for individuals with a disability, and the final section includes interleaved stories, all of which come together to provide a 360-degree view of the disability narrative.
Wrap up words
Whether it’s Srilata’s personal experiences as a caregiver, her daughter’s story in her own words, or the other first-person narratives and interviews featured in the book, each one allows the reader to see the disability experience through an empathetic lens, helping us to be less judgemental. Through these narratives, the book allows us to unlearn any preconceived notions we may have had and teaches us to approach disability and individuals with disabilities with an open, non-judgmental attitude. This ability to foster greater understanding and empathy is the true victory of this book.
Also, the beauty of the book lies in its open-ended stories, which serve as a metaphor for the possibility of change and growth over time, both as individuals and as a community. ‘This kind of child’ is certain to be an important part of history and has the potential to create history by initiating larger, kinder, and more inclusive conversations about the disability experience.
Whether abled or disabled, Srilata’s writing leaves readers with a compelling question to contemplate: what does it truly mean to live in our bodies and minds, and to navigate the world?
Title: LIVE SMART:100 HACKS FOR A HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER LIFE
Author: Teja Lele
Cover Illustrations: Sayan
Cover Design: Amit Malhotra
Inside Illustrations: Surojit Bhattacharjee
Genre: Non-fiction
Type: Paperback
Page Count: 245
Price: Paperback- ₹399, Kindle- ₹223
Blurb
Are you trying to fix a leaky faucet? Wondering how to treat a bee sting? Looking to purify water without a fancy purifier? Making a chemical-free lotion bar? Wondering what to do with the pile of cardboard boxes left after online retail therapy?
If yes, then Live Smart: 100 Hacks for a Healthier and Happier Life is your go-to guide! Here you will find user-friendly DIY solutions for everyday problems and interesting tips accompanied by illustrations that will help you navigate the how-to-do-its in a step-by-step manner.
Live Smart is an invaluable manual for those looking for practical ways to organize and improve their daily life—and having a little fun while they’re at it!
Book Review
As someone very fond of DIYs and minimalism, I’m always on the lookout for doable hacks which means my phone is filled with screenshots & YouTube videos on DIYs. So it was only natural for me to grab this book when it came for reviewing on the Blogchatter platform.
I assumed it to have a listing of hacks or DIYs like any other book on life hacks but I was proven wrong by this carefully structured and well-rounded book. Right from the start to the end, it kept me hooked.
“Self-sustainability doesn’t come easy in today’s world, where almost everything we need is a click or a swipe away.”
-Teja Lele
The author knows that for any sort of change to happen it must come from within and starts the book with the right questions-the essential whys. As you read, you are sure to go down memory lane and think of your ancestors’ simplistic lifestyle and yearn for it.
Within the first few pages, the intention of the book as well as that of the reader’s journey on sustainability is set. This makes the book more purposeful and action-oriented than being a mere read.
Coming to the hacks themselves, there are 100 of them categorised under the sections titled, Home, Food and Kitchen, Beauty, Health and Well-being and Reuse and Recycle. They cover every aspect of our lives be it fixing a leaky tap or revamping leftovers or making your mouthwash or prioritising mental health or reusing fruit peels. The list is endless.
There are also these features like ‘smart tips’ and ‘checklists’ which are like WOW! You definitely need them to make your sustainability journey an easy breeze.
The hacks/DIYs are crisp with clear instructions and safety precautions/warnings wherever necessary. The hacks are such that they can be appealing to people of any age, no matter wherever they are in their journey of sustainability or self-sustenance. In fact, it was my 10-year-old daughter who read this book first and made her list of things to try first. (Making a bird feeder, homemade mayonnaise and natural eye shadow top her list!)
What I felt even more fascinating is the author’s conversational tone with fictional characters/movie references here and there. Her witty phrases/lines make it more relatable and interesting as well.
More importantly, the author has nowhere made any stereotypical assumptions while talking about domestic chores/tasks or hacks, which is definitely noteworthy. Even the illustrations have made their point.
The cover design and illustration by Amit Malhotra and Sayan, respectively, are attractive and non-stereotypical. The inside illustrations by Surojit Bhattacharjee complement the hacks by giving us a visual insight into how things may look or how things need to be done. It gives the reader much-needed clarity.
‘What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from.’
-T.S. Eliot
To top it all, the end (Not the end, as the writer mentions) comes as a cherry on the cake. What a perfect ending, rather, beginning (you will know what I mean when you read this book!) to this journey. What a holistic outlook! It gave the feeling of completeness.
Wrap-up words
This book is definitely a catalyst in my journey of sustainability and it can be yours too. This book will meet you where you are and help you take the necessary steps to up your self-sustenance index and trust me, it is the need of the hour.
Finally, I just have two words-Go, BUY!
Buy here
P.S. This book also gains the credit of enlightening me that cover illustrations and cover design are two different things.
A book on ‘The Art of Learning Mathematics With Ease & Efficiency’
PC: Author of this website
Review: Who Says Math is Not Your Cup of Tea?
Author: Tenzin Pedon
Type: Paperback
Pages: 147
Age Group: 11+
Despite India being a land of great Mathematical contributions, it’s sad to note that not many take to Mathematics with great enthusiasm. I have come across children and adults equally, saying that they are ‘phobic’ towards Maths and it only makes me wonder why.
I believe that the way the Indian curriculum is designed (less application oriented) and the teaching methodology (not much of play way method) might be a few reasons for not being to inculcate an interest in Maths among the students.
Adding to that, there are not much of Math books (not the prescribed texts sticking to the syllabus) easily available for the children to get insight and explore the subject joyfully. There is a need for books that cover things outside of the syllabus while also making Maths more approachable.
“It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficult task which, more than anything else, will affect its successful outcome.”
-William James
“Who Says Math is Not Your Cup of Tea” by Tenzin Pedon is one such book that addresses the above issue. It focuses on the ART of learning Mathematics with ease and efficiency. This is not your typical Maths book/guide filled with problems or theorems. Rather, it’s the one that tells you how you develop an interest in Maths by sharing author-proposed learning strategies, making Maths more approachable.
The book starts with an introduction on the need for this book with supporting statistics which I know many would relate to. Not just that, it also sets the tone for the book on what a reader can expect and how to use the book for reaping the maximum benefit. So better not to skip the introduction.
The book’s content is divided into 4 parts- The high-five rule, Learning to conceptualize Mathematics, Learning to visualize Mathematics and Learning to solve word problems. I’m sure that just one look into the topics would pique your interest as this is not the kind of Math book we generally come across. Also, it’s something that’s addressing the struggles that we would have had during our learning stages.
With clear diction, appropriate diagrams and flow charts, the author familiarises us with her unique learning strategies like the high-five rule which makes it appealing even to the younger generation. It’s more like a self-help book to improve our Mathematical skills which goes beyond numbers and numerals.
“Every problem has a solution; it may sometimes just need another perspective.”
-Katherine Russell
There are a number of strategies discussed aided with real-life examples which makes it easy to grasp and retain the concepts. Be it going with the schema approach, connecting the concepts, creating mind maps, concept attainment model or use of Venn diagrams, there is a plethora of option to go for the strategy that appeals to you the best.
An interesting feature of the book is that there are questions (not Maths problems) and tables included in the introduction and in a few chapters which can come in handy to the reader to evaluate themselves then and there and see how far they have progressed. Also there are blank pages at the end of the book to take notes, if need be.
And not to forget, a list of online resources for Learning Math in a fun way that the author has put at the end of the book. I myself have used many of those resources and I must say they change your perspective towards Maths and get you addicted to numbers. The list compiled by the author is highly resourceful and you better make the best use of it. Many of them are absolutely free to use while a few may come with a minimal subscription fee.
The author being a Junior Research Fellow (JRF), with a primary research area in Mathematics Education, has not only identified the pitfalls in our approach towards Mathematical learning but also provided us with a hands-on process to overcome the difficulties in learning Math. Simply put, the author’s years of classroom teaching and research work reflects in this resourceful book.
This book is not just for reading but for actual utilisation by putting the strategies to work. This is more like a self-help book and will be more effective for anyone who is struggling with Math but would love to do better in the subject. I recommend this book for ages 11 and above, including teachers and parents. This book will be a resourceful addition to school libraries.
P.S.: The author of the book, Tenzin Pedon and I did our UG together. She was my peer, competitor but above all, a best friend for life and I shall assure you that in no way is the review biased. It’s pure joy to see my friend grow and I’m just sharing my joy with you all, through this review.
Also, did I mention, I got a Author signed copy for myself. Honestly, this is the first Author-signed book that I have in my collection. Yaay! Thanks to Pedon and wishing her the best, today & always 🙂
My Author-signed copy of the book!
To grab a paperback copy of this book, click here. You can also download a free copy under Kindle Unlimited.
Food is our common ground. A universal experience.
~ James Beard
Intrigued by the cover page, I pick up this book only to find out the author, Shail Thosani is a lawyer by profession and a home chef out of passion. With an enticing list of 15 vegetarian recipes in the index, this book got me hooked right then. Right from the crispy bread wada to the innovative stuffed idli, it was a drool-worthy read.
With simple yet drool-worthy recipes, this handy EBook has recipes that are beginner-friendly. All the recipes come with detailed step-by-step instructions with necessary bonus tips here and there.
Also, the recipes are made with commonly available ingredients and cooking utensils easily available in an Indian kitchen. Also, each recipe is accompanied by a picture of the dish so you know what to expect before starting to cook.
There is a mix of breakfast, lunch and dinner recipes and most of the recipes can be had any time of the day, like the broccoli paratha or the masala bhakri.
The potato fingers, quinoa patties and stuffed idli are going to be sure hits amongst kids. There are also easy-to-make dessert recipes like chocolate fudge ice cream, rava mango cake, etc to satiate your sweet tooth.
What I loved about the book is the clear step-by-step instructions and neat presentation. I would have loved to see more recipes though. Also not to forget, if you are looking for non-vegetarian recipes then you will be disappointed. But I’m sure the spicy veg recipes will make up for the disappointment though.
P.S. My hand is itching to try the potato fingers, stuffed idli, rava mango cake and broccoli masala, right away!
To grab a promotional copy of the book, click here.
Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair.
~Khalil Gibran
How often do we take time to be in the loving embrace of nature and enjoy its blessings consciously? Not very often, isn’t it? In this fast-paced life where we are all chasing goals after goals, we make schedules to embrace nature by planning a vacation by the beach side or camping or hiking. This being the bitter truth, the book, “Lessons from Nature” by the sisters cum duo bloggers, Meenal & Sonal comes as a gentle reminder to embrace nature and learn its language to understand the wisdom it has got to enlighten us with.
Floral blush steps down
Paving way for novice hopes
Unwrapping new stories
Written in a mix of prose and poetry, the book evokes optimism at every turn of the page. From flowers to moons to droughts and eclipses it invites the reader to view life through the lens of optimism and hope.
What may be considered the fierce face of nature like drought or quagmire is also shown in a new perspective that holds essential life lessons for us to learn. Before I forget, I should mention the beauty of the book cover.; it aptly evokes a sense of gentleness.
I particularly loved their portrayal of an eclipse as a power nap of the mighty celestial bodies.
A power nap of celestials
Working round the clock
Time to replenish
Another highlighting part of the book is the way each writeup ends with questions to reflect upon. That’s a very thoughtful way of adding more value to the book and the reader as well.
Though I understand the topics are arranged in alphabetical order, I wished they had been organised in a different way to make the flow seamless. But otherwise, the book is worth reading and reflecting on.
To grab a promotional copy of the book, click here.
“The thing about parenting rules is there aren’t any. That’s what makes it so difficult.”
~EWAN MCGREGOR
While there are so many books out there on raising toddlers, handling teens and self-help books for adults, tween literature didn’t get much attention. The term tween in itself may surprise many thinking that it is just teen misspelt. Well, let me get it clear right away. While teen refers to kids in the age group 13-18 years, tween refers to the age group 10-12 years.
Parenting tween by Jyoti Kaur bridges that gap present in tween literature and makes for a resourceful guide for the parents raising tweens.
Being a parent of a tween I had the urge to pick up this book instantly. I was assured a few pages into the book that the author has written honestly from her parenting experience and not some random theoretical piece of writing. The book is a practical guide on parenting tweens and it just spoke to me at different levels.
The book is organised, and the chapters are arranged in a manner such that it flows effortlessly. The titles are intriguing as well as indicative of what to expect; a balancing act, I would say.
Starting from defining a “tween” with the typical changes they go through physically, mentally & emotionally, this book held my attention right from the start. All along I was just nodding my head in affirmation of the author’s words.
It can be difficult in understanding the sudden mood swings, changes in interests, dressing style and communication patterns in tweens and parents need to be aware and ready for these changes to avoid conflicts with them. This book allows parents to be prepared to help their tweens understand themselves and sail through this phase smoothly.
What I liked best about the writing is that it isn’t preachy and is more like a fellow parent, a friend, sharing her parenting journey which makes the book more authentic.
I’m sure one look of the contents of the book (pic below) will give you enough reason to download the book immediately if you haven’t done it already.
Contents of the book “Parenting Tweens” by Jyoti Kaur
All the chapters have a strategic approach with crisp conclusions and actionable points. The chapters on standing up to bullies and understanding cyber-bullying are a must-read. I feel more empowered (really, if you know how it feels handling a tween!) and less anxious about the parenting journey after reading this. A must-read for every parent of tweens.
Only an empowered parent can raise an empowered kid. So, to grab a free promotional copy of the eBook, click here.
“Remember you are not managing an inconvenience. You are raising a human being.”
Our Environment-Threats, Challenges And Sustainable Solutions
Designed by the author on Canva
“Sustainability is no longer about doing less harm. It’s about doing more good.”
~Jochen Zeitz
When it comes to books on sustainability, especially for young minds, it must give a big picture and the actions needed at smaller levels. This book, Our Environment from Scholastic Publication does exactly that, which makes it a must-read.
Covering topics on environment, energy, environmental challenges and environmental responsibility, this makes for a wholesome read.
The book starts by answering the big question, what is the environment. It captures the pre-industrialisation, post-industrialisation and current situation, rightly and navigates us through different kinds of ecosystems and their functions. It talks about the biodiversity of India in specific and the threats to it.
A must read for children
The topic then moves on to different kinds of energy resources and how can we be more efficient in energy consumption and saving. The explanations start with examples that kids can relate to in their everyday life and then gradually scales up to help them understand the big picture.
There’s a wide range of topics covered, say from composting at home to the management of industrial waste, everything small and big that impacts or affects the environment is explained comprehensively. The language is lucid. It is not preachy but convincing.
Most importantly, there are small actionable points across the pages that can make a kid feel capable and take action in saving the earth in their own small, yet vital ways.
There are exercises that would make kids think about and take environmental issues seriously.
The best part of the book is that it ends by giving a brief outlook on the variety of “green careers” one can opt for and how to go about pursuing them.
To help the kids get inspired in choosing a green career, the book also goes on to tell about “planet pioneers” and their contributions.
To top it all, it ends on the topic of “Start A Campaign For Change” and there can’t be a much well-rounded, action-oriented book on sustainable solutions than this.
A highly recommended book for schools and homes as well, for everyone young & old.
Title: Wish By Spirit- A journey of recovery & healing from an autoimmune disease
Author: Joan Young
Genre: Autobiography/Memoir
Type: E-book
Page Count: 231
Price: Kindle edition- ₹449
Paperback- ₹1124
Blurb (as on Kindle)
After mysterious bruises appeared on her arms and each day brought a struggle to maintain the life she knew, Joan finally learned she had immune thrombocytopenia purpura, ITP. ITP is an autoimmune bleeding disorder, subjecting its victims to a lifetime struggle with low platelet counts and constant fear of bleeding to death, or so Joan was led to believe. After seven failed treatments, the additional health problem they created, and a platelet count that hovered near zero, she began her own search for a cure.
She experimented with vitamins, herbs, energy medicine, and took a deep look into her soul to discover ways to heal her sense of self. Joan’s journey from diagnosis to remission lasted 18 months. The insights into her life, the healing practices she learned, and her spiritual shift changed her life forever. Reading this book could change yours.
Book Review
Wish by Spirit by Joan Young, is more than just being an account of her journey of recovery from an autoimmune disorder. This book brings a total shift in the mindset moving from self-pity to self-introspection to self-healing to self-empowering.
As much as this book has dealt with treating external symptoms, it has also equally dealt with doing the inner work. Thus this book can appeal to anyone who is going through chronic health issues and go for a holistic approach towards health and healing.
If there is one quote that can sum up the gist of this book, then it would be this:
“The wound is the place where the Light enters you.”
-Rumi
If you or anyone you know of is going through chronic illness or an autoimmune disease, then this book makes for a must-read. While the autoimmune disease is believed to have “no cure”, this book comes in like a breath of fresh air giving hope and a roadmap to all the possibilities of healing and living a quality life.
It also makes a must-read for the patient’s support system to gain an insight and understanding of what it takes and how much time and energy it takes in their battle against the illness.
Apart from the mention of allopathy medications and treatments, Joan has written down comprehensively about alternative medicine, energy healers, etc. This gives us a clear insight on having a holistic approach towards health and focusing on aspects like lifestyle changes, diets, working on our inner self, etc.
Author’s writing style
It could have been easy for anyone undergoing a health crisis to fall into victim mode and write from the perspective of self-pity. But what makes Joan’s writing style distinct and outstanding is that she writes from an objective view, with a tone of empathy and lots of hope.
Her writing is lucid, honest and has the potential to get you out of your comfort zone, ask yourself the tough but necessary questions, for the onset of your journey towards healing.
Wrap up words
This book makes for a must-read for those going through critical illness and their support system. Even otherwise too this makes for a great read, as this book changes our perspective towards health for the better and helps us implement necessary changes for better health, physical, mental and spiritual.
Also, a must-read book for those fighting ITP and also for their support system
For more reads on autoimmune disorder and ITP, check here:
‘I’m participating in the #TBRChallenge by Blogchatter’.
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